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Best pregnancy and parenthood movies of all time

Posted on 07 December 2016

Oh how we love sitting back on a cosy night in and getting engrossed in a movie, and what could be better than one of the classic all time flicks that feature pregnancy and parenthood? Much better than reading a stodgy academic novel on parenting, we’re sure these films have a bit to offer when it comes to parenting advice… just take it with a grain of salt.

So, drum roll please…

MADE’s Top 11 pregnancy and parenting movies of all time are...

While We’re Young

Slightly obscure, this movie is on our list because it explores something we don’t think gets talked about enough… the sheer terror that comes along with that time in your life when you realise it’s time to or you want to have a baby. We know it’s really exciting, and joyous, and all the rest of it, but for lots of people who want to have kids, it feels like there is never a good time and as though they’re never adult enough to do it. This film explores all of that and we love it for it.

The Sound of Music

This is definitely one of our favourite things… The Sound of Music might seem a little long in the tooth to be relevant today, but when you think about it, it’s got some pretty darn good lessons… like how to make clothes out of curtains, and what to look for when you’re 16 going on 17. Really though, what we love about this flick is the message that it’s possible for step-parents to form really strong bonds with stepchildren, no matter the circumstances. That and the sweet, sweet tones of Julie Andrews.

Junior

Arnie, pregnant, are you kidding me, what could be more awesome?! We’re not sure this concept would fly in a 21st Century studio, but that’s why we love 90s movies so much. This is so ridiculous - but that’s kind of it’s genius… think Arnold Schwarzenegger and Danny Devito slap stick at it’s best. Comedy gold… if you’re into that kind of thing. And if you get on a roll with Arnie movies, check out Kindergarten Cop.

What to Expect When You’re Expecting

If ever there was a film that captured all avenues to parenthood, then this one is it. Adoption, blended families, new Dads coping with parenthood, IVF and assisted reproduction technologies, difficulties falling pregnant, couples who fall pregnant right away, women who struggle with pregnancy, others who breeze through the 9 months… the list goes on. There’s really something for everyone to relate to in this adaptation of the parenting bible, What To Expect When You’re Expecting, which was originally published in 1984 and remains a go-to for many expecting Mamas.

Knocked Up

Seth Rogen, Katherine Heigl and enough lols and cringey moments to bring on labour. We love this one because it explores the male side of the one night stand that turns into a life long commitment. And it’s got some of the best new age Oprah inspired Dad lines of any parenting movie - “Are you living your vision right now?”. Love it.

Beaches

The river of friendship runs deeper than the storyline of pregnancy in this absolute classic, but for us that’s kind of the point. This film is a lesson in how important friendship is when you’re experiencing Motherhood for the first time. We knew it before but boy does Bette Midler show us the power of a good friend in raising your kids. And - spoiler alert!! - it also takes a look single Motherhood. This one is a tear jerker people, get the tissues!

Juno

Who doesn’t love an indie flick about teen pregnancy?! Juno was such a smash when it was released, it sent the bands who featured on the soundtrack to stardom in a rocket launcher, not to mention the star of the film, Ellen Page. Juno with her carton of orange juice and her hipster checked shirts put a different spin on teen pregnancy than any film before it. It might not be ideal, but it sure makes for an awesome movie with a happy ending, Jennifer Garner style.

Look Who’s Talking

Who could resist John Travolta and Kirstie Alley, and a newborn who thinks witty thoughts? We love this 90s classic, it’s the guide to dealing with scum bag Dads, doing the best for your kids no matter the circumstances and what babies are thinking… ok maybe not that last bit.

Father of the Bride Two

Another 90s classic, this movie is soooooo good. And what a twist! If you need some hope that pregnancy can and will happen, then take a look at Diane Keaton. Our favourite moment is when the grandparents are huddled around, awaiting the news of their newly married kids… or when Mum and Daughter are in matching unitards doing prego aerobics... it's a tough one.

Now and Then

The seminal coming-of-age movie, this awesome 90s hit was all about growing up, the pressures of adult life, the different directions we take, what it’s like to have divorced parents, what it’s like to be an only child, what it’s like to grow up as the only girl in your family, and then there’s the whole ‘taking a village to raise a child’ thing. This is feel good stuff at it’s best. Plus, you know, a killer cast that includes Demi Moore, Rosie O'Donnell, Melanie Griffiths and Christina Ricci.

Mrs Doubtfire

Our number one. If ever there was a flick about parenting through separation, then this is it. You just can’t go past Robin Williams’ depiction of the desperation of a Dad who just wants to see his kids all the time. A true heart warmer, this flick is one of those classics that just comes straight to our minds when we think of parenting movies. Sally Fields and Robin Williams are like the icing on the glorious Mrs Doubtfire suppers.